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B 26-0517

Streatery Program Temporary Amendment Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Charles Allen

DC extends temporary streatery program allowing restaurants to operate outdoor dining on public sidewalks and streets through continued legislative authorization.

Law L26-0097, Effective from Mar 06, 2026 Published in DC Register Vol 73 and Page 004483, Expires on Oct 17, 2026
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Bill Summary · B 26-0517

Legislative bill overview

Bill B 26-0517 extends the District of Columbia's temporary "streatery" program, which allows restaurants to operate outdoor dining structures on public sidewalks and streets. The bill was introduced by Councilmember Charles Allen and has already been enacted as Act A26-0241, making it law as of January 12, 2026.

Why is this important

Streeteries became popular during the COVID-19 pandemic as a way for restaurants to serve customers safely outdoors while reclaiming underutilized street space. This legislation determines whether DC restaurants can continue using these structures, affecting both business operations and urban street design. The extension also signals how the city balances commercial activity with public space management and pedestrian access.

Potential points of contention

  • Equity concerns: Whether streatery permits are distributed fairly across neighborhoods or if affluent commercial areas receive disproportionate access to public space
  • Street safety and accessibility: Debate over whether outdoor dining structures obstruct sidewalks for pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchair users, and emergency access
  • Permanence vs. temporality: Whether a "temporary" program should eventually expire or become permanent, and what criteria would determine that decision

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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